Hurricanes at Walt Disney World

Updated September 24, 2024

Awwww Florida.

You never stop delivering.

Hurricanes might not be on your Disney World trip wish list, but it’s wise to be prepared in case one arrives while you’re on site.

This happened to me recently. There was no sign of significant weather upon departing San Diego, but a hurricane landed in my 8 day visit.

I wasn’t prepared, but I learned a lot.

Let’s see what you need to know.

Basic Scoop

Hurricanes seem quite common in Florida, but they’ve only caused our Orlando parks to close a total of 6 times.

That’s it!

Per Disney Tourist Blog: “Hurricanes have caused Walt Disney World to close on six occasions. In 1999 for Hurricane Floyd; in 2004 on separate occasions in a six-week span for Hurricanes Frances, Charley, and Jeanne; in 2005 for Hurricane Wilma; in 2016 for Hurricane Matthew; in 2017 for Hurricane Irma; and in 2022 for Hurricane Ian.”

I was there for Ian.

What are the odds?

Resources for News & Weather

This link takes you to the official WDW policy page for hurricanes.

And this one shares weather updates when necessary.

There is ample signage with any changes at your resort.

If you find yourself in a storm while visiting, I would go by the front desk to inquire how on-site guests will be reached if the parks or resorts close. They’ll have the latest resources for you.

Chance of a Hurricane? Bring This Stuff

Consider packing a few things for your hotel room if there’s even a chance of inclement weather:

• Playing cards
• Small travel games
• Books

Find This Stuff in the Disney Gift Shop On Site

The following items might be helpful for you to ride out the storm and can be found in most gift shops on site:

• Disney board games
• Liquor!
• Small travel games

Here’s more of what’s at the resorts:

Changes at the Resorts

In the event of a large storm, parks will close but resorts will stay open, of course, for guests already on site.

The resorts are combed for hazards. You’ll notice trash cans zip tied to each other and then to light posts along with other small changes like this that won’t affect your stay, but instead will keep you safe.

Riding Out the Storm

I was solo on this part of my trip, so it was a little scary, but I made it work.

As soon as I learned about the weather coming, I set out to find food and essentials. Publix is a popular grocery store in the area, so I went there.

I ubered to the store and stocked up on pre-made goodies, snacks, alcohol, and water.

When I arrived back at my room to settle in, I tidied up a bit, made sure I had all of my housekeeping necessities and turned on the TV.

Thankfully, the storm passed without too much damage.

The Resort Vibes

There’s a sense of both hysteria and camaraderie during a storm. Guests tend to reach out to one another and share essential items, but you should make yourself as prepared as possible, of course.

During the tough parts of the storm, most guests stayed in their rooms. When the danger passed, Disney Resort lobbies and common grounds included guests gathering for board games and generally chatting about storm. It was nice to see after a rough night.